If you need a quick dinner that feels fresh and light but still full of flavor, this Air Fryer Cod is it. It’s flaky, juicy, and perfectly seasoned with just a few simple ingredients. The outside gets a little golden, and the inside stays tender. I make this on busy weeknights when I want something healthy but don’t want a sink full of dishes.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Why I Love This Recipe
The first time I made this, I was honestly shocked at how good it turned out. I used to bake cod in the oven, but sometimes it would dry out. The air fryer changed everything. The fish cooks fast and stays juicy inside.
Now it’s one of my go-to meals when I want something that feels a little special but takes almost no effort.
Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- It cooks in under 12 minutes
- The texture is perfectly flaky every time
- You only need a handful of simple ingredients
- It’s light but still satisfying
- Cleanup is super easy
What You’ll Need
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each, thawed and patted dry)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Pastry brush or spoon
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Air Fryer Cod Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cod
Pat 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each) dry with paper towels. This helps them get slightly golden instead of soggy.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir well so the spices are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Season the Fish
Brush 2 tablespoons olive oil evenly over both sides of the 4 dried cod fillets. Sprinkle the full spice mixture evenly over each fillet, pressing gently so it sticks.
Step 4: Air Fry the Cod
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the 4 seasoned cod fillets in the basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F inside.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Parsley
Remove the cooked cod fillets and place them on a round white plate. Drizzle 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the hot fish and sprinkle 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley on top.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Cod is a lean fish, which means it can dry out fast. The olive oil helps lock in moisture. The air fryer uses hot, circulating air that cooks the outside quickly. This creates a light crust while keeping the inside tender. Cooking to 145°F ensures it’s safe but still juicy.
Macros Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values per cod fillet:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
Common Mistakes
- Not drying the fish first. Wet fish won’t brown well.
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leave space around each fillet.
- Overcooking. Check at 10 minutes. Cod cooks fast.
- Skipping the oil. It helps flavor and texture.
What to Serve With
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted potatoes
- White or brown rice
- Simple side salad
- Garlic green beans
Substitutions and Variations
- Use tilapia or haddock instead of cod.
- Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne for heat.
- Swap parsley for fresh dill.
- Add 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan on top before cooking for a cheesy crust.
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the spice blend ahead of time and store it in a small jar. The fish is best cooked fresh, but you can season it and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before air frying.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw it fully and pat it dry before seasoning.
How do I know when it’s done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F inside.
Can I bread this cod?
Yes. Dip in beaten egg and coat with seasoned breadcrumbs before air frying.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Air Fryer Cod is simple, fast, and packed with flavor. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like you did something special without spending all evening in the kitchen. Give it a try, and once you taste that flaky, lemony bite, I think it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation too. Let me know how it turns out for you!